Scientists Develop Chocolate-Powered Race Car

Scientists have developed a chocolate powered race car that could reach speeds of 145 mph.

Now here's some green tech I can really get behind. Scientists have developed what they hope will be one of the world's fastest biofuel vehicles--one that is powered by waste from chocolate factories and created partly from plant fibers, according to the Associated Press.

The 145-mph race car project aims to help spurn discussion among automakers and researchers about how to build more environmentally friendly vehicles. The race car was even built to Formula 3 standards in terms of size, weight, and performance characteristics. So far, scientists have driven the car about 60 mph, but have yet to test the 145 mph claim themselves.

Even so, here's how it breaks down. "The car runs on vegetable oils and chocolate waste that has been turned into biofuel," the report said. "The steering wheel is made out of plant-based fibers derived from carrots and other root vegetables, and the seat is built of flax fibre and soybean oil foam. The body is also made of plant fibers." The group plans to bring the car around to show off at several races in the coming months, including the upcoming European Grand Prix. Not bad, huh? (Image credit: University of Warwick)Back to top